Kyiv, September 3 (Daily Kiran) : During his first official bilateral visit to Ukraine, Indian External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar reiterated India’s long-standing position that the current era is not one for war. Speaking after discussions with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba in Kyiv, Jaishankar emphasized that solutions cannot emerge from the battlefield. He echoed Prime Minister Modi’s call to transition from “endless war” to peace.
Jaishankar expressed condolences for the recent loss of an Indian citizen in a Kyiv attack, stating that India mourns every life lost and stands in solidarity with affected families. Prior to this visit, he noted that he and Kuleba maintained regular communication, having met in various locations including Cyprus, France, and Munich over the past year.
The ministers acknowledged that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Prime Minister Modi have met multiple times, with their latest interaction occurring at the G-7 summit in France in June. Jaishankar stressed that the ongoing conflict, now entering its fifth year, has led to increasing casualties and destruction. He affirmed India’s readiness to assist in any way possible to facilitate dialogue.
Specific challenges discussed included attacks on commercial shipping, affecting Indian sailors on foreign-flagged vessels. The impact of the conflict on global shipping has significant repercussions for countries in the Global South, leading to shortages of fuel, fertilizers, and food. The ministers exchanged views on these pressing issues.
Jaishankar also highlighted India’s humanitarian efforts, mentioning the provision of 19 shipments of aid to Ukraine, which included generators, medicines, and medical equipment totaling 160 tons. He and Kuleba plan to discuss future contributions in this area.
Regarding bilateral cooperation, Jaishankar noted the long history of India-Ukraine relations, predating Ukraine’s independence. Trade spans various sectors, including pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and machinery, though it has faced disruptions due to the war and logistical challenges. However, he pointed out that resilience has emerged, along with new opportunities.
The discussions also touched on education, a longstanding area of collaboration. Jaishankar acknowledged the many Indian students currently studying in Ukraine, thanking local authorities for their care. He expressed optimism about future cooperation, particularly in areas of digital capabilities, innovation, and startups.
He further mentioned that advancements in artificial intelligence present new opportunities across health, education, agriculture, and governance. The ministers are set to explore these developments in their ongoing partnership. Jaishankar extended an invitation to Kuleba to visit India for the next meeting of their co-chaired intergovernmental commission.
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